Hi all! Newbe here. I just purchased a 2006 hatchback with 68,000 miles and need to improve the suspension. Would like any help/advice on what would be good shocks for everyday highway driving with occassional mountain trips and do I need to change the springs also and recommendations on what good shock/springs matchups I should use.

Thanks

 

What size wheels are on your car? I ask because if you're running 16" wheels your best place to start (from a dollar versus performance perspective) would be to buy a set of 17" wheels and some high performance tires to wrap around them.

 

if your not really knowledgeable about suspension just get the full mazdaspeed suspension kit, along with a nice set of rubber

 

I am running a set of Nitto size 17. I'll have look at the mazda speed suspension. I was thinking of maybe Koni's and H n R springs. And maybe bigger front sway bar. Don't really care if it rides a lot lower. Just looking to improve overall handling and ride comfort

 

Well then id do what you want (koni + H R) make sure its an even drop though, i know the eibach's give an even drop, max drop height is 1.8in, any lower u start to lessen the effects of handling. thicker sway bars always help but ive heard that the stock swaybar endlinks like to snap under high stress (also a PITA to replace) so thats something else you should consider. If you want something cheap with a noticeable improvement over stock you can go with a used stock mazdaspeed suspension (off of the speed 3) until you can afford a better setup.